SamTrans to swap out 10 diesel buses with electric versions

SamTrans is set to replace 10 of its diesel buses with battery-electric versions following a vote by the transit agency’s Board of Directors.

The new buses are expected to begin service early in 2019 and will join SamTrans’ existing 25 hybrid buses that are helping to reduce its 302-vehicle fleet’s emissions, SamTrans said in a statement.

Proterra, Inc. of Burlingame won the $9.2 million contract to supply the electric buses, which are funded by a combination of federal, state, SamTrans and Bay Area Air Quality Management District funds, according to the transit agency.

The diesel buses expected to be replaced by the electric versions have reached the end of their useful life and are among the oldest in the SamTrans fleet. Also 40 feet long, the new electric buses will be used throughout the SamTrans service area and can carry up to 38 seated and 18 standing passengers. They can also accommodate up to three bicycles, and they feature USB charging ports on all double seats. Maintenance facilities with also get new charging stations for the electric buses.

SamTrans’ fleet provides transportation for more than 42,000 people every weekday, with about 72 percent of riders going to school or work, the transit agency said.